The Government of Ontario has initiated 19 forensic audits over the past five years across multiple ministries, according to information obtained through freedom of information requests. The audits, which are detailed financial investigations into organizations receiving public funds, highlight growing scrutiny over how taxpayer money is managed once distributed beyond Queen’s Park.
Forensic audits, typically conducted under the oversight of the Treasury Board, are triggered when irregularities or financial concerns are identified. These reviews aim to verify the proper use of funds and detect potential misuse or fraud. In one notable case in 2025, an investigation into a contractor linked to the Ministry of Colleges and Universities uncovered apparent financial irregularities and was subsequently referred to the Ontario Provincial Police for further action.
The data reveals that the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development has undergone the highest number of audits among all departments, including multiple investigations involving vendors connected to the province’s Skills Development Fund. The fund has previously faced criticism from Ontario’s auditor general, who found that the program lacked fairness, transparency and accountability, with several lower-ranked applicants receiving funding after engaging lobbyists.
Opposition leaders, including Marit Stiles, have raised concerns about whether sufficient safeguards are in place during these audits and questioned whether funding continued to flow to organizations under investigation. Critics argue that while audits demonstrate due diligence, the government must ensure stronger oversight mechanisms to prevent misuse of public funds.
Premier Doug Ford has defended the process, stating that the government presumes innocence during audits and only halts funding once findings confirm wrongdoing. He emphasized that cases involving confirmed irregularities are referred to law enforcement agencies such as the Ontario Provincial Police.
Among the organizations scrutinized, Keel Digital Solutions — a recipient of Skills Development Fund money — was subject to a forensic audit beginning in 2024. Despite identified concerns, the company continued to receive public funds during the review period. The firm has denied any wrongdoing and is currently pursuing legal action against the provincial government, alleging that the audit process lacked transparency and fairness.
The list of audits also includes investigations within the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, as well as a recent 2026 audit involving the Ministry of Health. However, details surrounding the specific triggers, findings and outcomes of many of these audits remain limited.
The findings underscore ongoing concerns about financial accountability within government-funded programs, as calls grow for improved oversight and transparency in the management of public funds across Ontario’s ministries.